Riis Beach, By Tilly

What problem would you like to solve?

The Idea that they want to turn the Neoponsit Hospital land into a children playground, feel like an attack on a queer space. Turning it into a hospital if it’s expressly a queer wellness/shelter might also shift the vibe. Protecting the vibe/ safer queer spaces is more important.

Why is it important to solve? Why is it relevant for the community?

Maintaining the beach queer autonomous space is important because it is so generationally established. People count on it to be there. There are so few public spaces that are safe for Queer and trans to exist and it’s especially important to have access to a beach where it feels safe to relax in a bathing suit.

What idea do you have to address the problem?

Planting a park/ environmentally beneficial & protected area could expand the area we can hang out in. Plants could separate the park from the neighbors. It will be resilient to floods and help mitigate climate change.

Who would that help?

It would help the queer beach goers, the neighbors. It would help wildlife.

What neighborhood would benefit from your idea?

TRIE Neighborhood- Rockaways